With record temperatures predicted for this summer, you may be wondering how to beat the heat and still preserve the planet.

That rattling air conditioner hanging precariously outside your bedroom window may cool your jets for the moment but when your electric bill comes, it’ll be more than the summer heat waves that are burning you up.

So how can you keep cool and stay Green?  We’ve got a few ideas:

1.)  As warm-blooded creatures, we produce our own heat even in the hottest of weather.  A good way to keep your core temperature down is to drink cold water frequently, keeping those reusable aluminum canteens in the fridge and freezer for those super sweltering days.

2.)  Anything within your grasp that uses electricity also gives off heat so when not using lights, TV, computer, and your fan, switch them off for that much needed extra drop in ambient temperature.

3.) Say no to the stove!  Baking and roasting might be better served using the outdoor grill if you’re feeling McGuiverish.  If you’re stuck without a backyard and feeling crafty, hit the roof and make your own solar oven out of found wood and cookie sheets.
Photo by Nachiket Joshi.